The 2024 WNBA Finals are headed to a decisive Game 5 after the Minnesota Lynx defeated the New York Liberty 82-80 in Game 4 on Friday night. The game came down to the wire, but Minnesota’s Bridget Carleton was fouled by Game 4 hero Sabrina Ionescu and sunk two free throws with two seconds remaining in regulation to keep her team’s season alive.
The Liberty, seeking the first title in franchise history, trailed much of the fourth quarter but tied the game at 80-80 on a 3-point play by Jonquel Jones with 1:10 to play. New York would have multiple opportunities to take the lead, but missed their final four shots, including a deep 3-pointer from Ionescu at the buzzer that would have won New York the title in thrilling fashion.
Carleton, who finished with 12 points, was one of five Minnesota players to score in double-figures. Kayla McBride led the way with 19 while Courtney Williams pitched in 15 with seven assists, Napheesa Collier had 14 points and nine rebounds and Alanna Smith finished with 12 points and seven boards.
On the other side, New York star Breanna Stewart had a rough night. Stewart scored only 11 points while shooting 5 of 21 from the field, including going 0 for 7 in the first quarter…
